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Cornrow Braids Tidy and Fashionable

Cornrow braids are a summer staple for those who want to keep their hair manageable and super low-maintenance. But really, this is a style that works at any time of year.

These tiny braids are so very versatile. Change the width and/or direction of the partings and you have a completely different look.

Weave in colored strands to jazz up your look and personalize it even more by adding beads on the ends.

Or, add length or fullness to short or fine hair by weaving in hair extensions.

See our gallery of braided hairstyles and read through our basic cornrow braiding instructions below. You'll also find product and tool recommendations for styling and maintaining this look...

Click any image to enlarge and start slideshow

GET THE RIGHT TOOLS:

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PRODUCTS:

Olive oil has been credited for its ability to hydrate hair and improve elasticity with use over time. Those qualities make products with olive oil an excellent choice to care for braided hair.

This product line is terrifically affordable and works better than some products that cost five times as much. Check them out if you want professional performance at bargain prices!

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SPECIALTY PRODUCTS FOR EXTRA PROTECTION:

Braid Patterns

The pattern of your finished style begins with the shape of the partings you make for each braid. Have a basic vision in mind of what you want to create. Look at the head shape and hairline, and consider the thickness of the hair.

Partings can be straight, wavy, zig zag, triangular, even swirls or written messages! Keep the width of the partings on the smaller side for fine hair. Very thick hair can accommodate wider partings.

There are some great examples of creative use of partings and braiding direction in the gallery above.

The Mechanics

Cornrows are basically just a tiny french braid. Part off the entire first section and clamp the other hair to the sides, out of the way. Take a very small piece from the front of the first section and split it into three, then start braiding, adding in tiny bits of hair from the section with each change of strands as you braid.

Secure each braid at the bottom with a tiny elastic. (see product recommendations below) Adorn with a bead or clamp if desired.

FINDING A BRAIDER

If you don't live in an area where cornrow braids are commonplace, it can be hard to find a skilled braider.

While I was in hair school, a head-full of cornrow braids was a typical summer's day appointment. It was a great (if tedious) learning experience, though each and every one of us dreaded our turn on the cornrow cycle. :)

If you are looking to have your hair done in this style, or maybe your kids' hair for a carefree summer style, check out local hair schools.

Cornrow Braids - Top